Arlington, Texas, is a sprawling North Texas hub and one of the many great ones in the DFW metroplex. Amazingly, this vibrant city has achieved the rare balance between feeling suburban and also being a pretty cool place for authentic global cuisine (hello, diverse neighborhoods and fantastic food scenes). If you’re craving rich curries, fragrant biryanis, and tandoori specialties, check out one of these spots.
Biriyani House
$ | (682) 478-8979 | WEBSITE
Biriyani House is a family-owned haven. This Indian spot feels like a cozy, warmly lit dining room set somewhere in a quiet Arlington neighborhood, with simple wooden tables and a small counter area. But the main dining space with its aromatic spices wafting from the kitchen is exactly where we want to settle in for generous portions of fragrant biryani, creamy butter chicken, fluffy naan, and crispy samosas.
This affordable restaurant is always filled with regulars grabbing takeout, families enjoying a relaxed dinner, and people seeking authentic flavors without the fuss, which certainly makes a meal here comforting.
Herbs Indian Restaurant & Bar
$ | (817) 476-6002 | WEBSITE
This Indian spot in Arlington has a spacious, laid-back setting with comfortable seating that makes you feel like you’re dining in a welcoming neighborhood gathering place. Which is why we come here with friends, family, or anytime we want to relax over some very flavorful Indian food.
The menu features popular dishes like chicken platters and momos, but you can always count on excellent garlic butter naan, delicious vegetarian options, and the praised Indian buffet with both vegetarian and non-vegetarian choices. They also accommodate parties and are open for drinks.
Tikka Bowls And Tacos
$ | (682) 323-5771 | WEBSITE
This casual Arlington spot feels perfectly suited for grabbing a quick lunch with coworkers or sitting next to tables full of spice-loving folks who agree that fusion food is the highlight of modern dining. The dining area is a cross between a fast-casual eatery and a vibrant food stall thanks to colorful ingredient displays, decorative spice jars, and an open kitchen where you can watch your meal being assembled.
You’ll dine on things like the standout Chicken Tikka Rice Bowl topped with fresh herbs, mango lassi drinks, and other customizable items from the Indian-Mexican fusion menu. This flavorful meal stays reasonable (bowls range from $12-$18), but the ability to create your own perfect combination makes up for any lack of fancy views.
Golconda Xpress Indian Food Truck
Golconda Xpress Indian Food Truck is Arlington’s most popular Indian food truck—it’s been serving the area for years and is known to draw consistent lines, especially during the busy lunch rush at its regular downtown spot. Trying it at least once is an essential local food experience.
Once you approach the window, the aromas of spices will greet you, and you’ll have your choice of everything from consistently delicious chicken tikka masala and vegetable biryani to flavorful samosas and garlic naan. Order a bit of everything and don’t hesitate.
STAR INDIA
$ | (817) 265-9020 | WEBSITE
Star India feels like a family kitchen in Mumbai complete with warm lighting, deep red walls, and intricate tapestries everywhere. The Indian restaurant in Arlington is exactly where to go for spice-filled dinners or times when pretending like you’ve discovered a hidden culinary treasure and savor a plate of curry just feels right.
Their $25 weekend buffet consists of solid traditional dishes like Palak Panneer, Baingan Barta, and Chicken Tikka Makhni—but what this spot lacks in flashy presentation it makes up for with decades-long history and a very cozy atmosphere.
Apna Food Truck
$ | (817) 360-7554 | WEBSITE
A guide to the best Indian spots in Arlington isn’t complete without mentioning all the great food trucks you’ll encounter cruising around town. A few of our favorite things to get are the flavorful Chicken Shawarma from Apna Food Truck, the Aloo Tikki Noodles Burger stuffed with seasoned fries right there, the juicy Paneer Kahdi and Spicy Chicken Tikka Wrap at the same spot. You’ll also want to stop by for their creative fusion options and delicious sauces to go.
And swing by after midnight for those late-night cravings when there’s open seating and free parking available.
Nanglo Restaurant and Bar at Arlington
$ | (682) 252-4092 | WEBSITE
There aren’t a lot of Nepalese restaurants in Arlington, but even if there were places on every corner (Indian spots certainly trying), Nanglo would still be one of the best. Everything at this clean, pleasant place from the steamed momo appetizer to their Local goat Thali that tastes like home is delicious, and the efficient, friendly service is a great backdrop for busy weekend nights, special occasions, or any time you want to feel like you’re on an authentic culinary journey.
Tandoor
$ | (817) 261-6604 | WEBSITE
Here to deliver big flavors and generous comfort is Tandoor. The popular Indian spot tucked away in Arlington is feel-good dining personified. It’s got warm lighting, cozy booths, friendly chatter filling the modest space, and a welcoming vibe that makes you feel like family. Prepare for chicken tikka masala with fluffy garlic naan, perfectly spiced veggie samosas, and extra creamy saag paneer. Tandoor, unlike your typical takeout joint and busy weeknight, is a happy place.
So do the smart thing and come here if you need a satisfying meal after a long day, or just want reliable Indian food that won’t break the bank.
Spicy Bites
$ | (817) 642-5005 | WEBSITE
Spicy Bites is single-handedly raising Arlington’s late-night dining stock. The Indian spot on the strip, with its vibrant open kitchen and sizzling pans in the back, is the neighborhood’s best option for a satisfying meal with lots of spice and flavor. Come in with someone you like and share the small plates, like crispy Vada Pav or tangy Sev Puri, alongside perfectly cooked Chicken 65 and juicy Butter Chicken.
And if you’re sitting inside and the aromatic spices get too intense, they also have excellent Garlic Naan to cool things down.
IndianBistro14 – Restaurant & Bar
$ | (817) 962-0050 | WEBSITE
Arlington already has its share of Indian restaurants—Tandoori Nights, Curry Leaf, and Spice Route—just to name a few. But Indian Bistro 14 is the best. Order anything from the lunch plate and you’re guaranteed to leave satisfied. Go for the two-curry combo with perfectly spiced sauces and fluffy basmati rice, and the hot tea that steams with cardamom and ginger to reveal layers of cinnamon and clove.
The cozy atmosphere fills up quickly, so take advantage of the front and back parking and the wheelchair-friendly entrance.
Desi Adda Kafe Restaurant
$ | (682) 323-5607 | WEBSITE
At this Indian restaurant located in Arlington, the menu is straightforward and the dining room with its clean, bright environment is even more straightforward (we wouldn’t be surprised if they could fit a whole study group inside). This makes Desi Adda Kafe an ideal spot to gather with lots of friends to enjoy traditional tea brewed from leaves or satisfy a craving over samosas, puffs, paneer dishes, and more.
Annampuram Authentic South Indian Restaurant
$ | (682) 282-4386 | WEBSITE
Annampuram is a family-run South Indian restaurant in Arlington with flavorful rasam soup, naatukodi curry specials, and abundant vegetarian options. We usually skip the entrees when we’re here (this isn’t a place where you’ll say, ‘Hey, try this’), and instead use this spot as a ticket to authentic dosa dining. Lots of simple tables and plastic chairs fill the cozy but bright indoor area. Enjoy the complimentary chai with a podi dosa before moving on to the next spot.
India Grill indian restaurant and bar
$ | (817) 468-9150 | WEBSITE
India Grill is quite spacious and has a welcoming dining area that feels both elegant and comfortable. They serve consistently excellent food, with everything from butter chicken and goat curry to dishes like paalak paneer and tandoori chicken, and it’s a perfect place for groups or a satisfying meal whether you’re dining in or taking out.
You can also enjoy some really good drinks at the bar, with attentive service that makes great recommendations and a peaceful atmosphere that allows for easy conversation.
